ABOUT

HILARY DONNELLY

Born and raised in the Northeast countryside, I grew up climbing trees, pocketing frogs, and collecting bird feathers. Adventuring in my backyard as a child brought a freedom that I have rediscovered through creating art. Most of my adult life was dedicated to the study of clinical psychology, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and a Master of Art in Clinical Psychology. The healing journey of becoming a psychotherapist as well as Buddhist pilgrimages to Japan and India provided the necessary steps toward an unfolding of self that allowed my awakening to art. Playing with color, design, and texture brought me back to the bliss I felt as a child exploring my natural environment. Soon after complete immersion into art classes and workshops, my achievements attained recognition. I received the Studio Art Award from Cabrillo College and 2nd prize at SCAL’s 79th Annual Statewide Exhibition, Irreplaceable Places: Contemporary Landscape Painters. When a surprise injury limited my physical abilities, I surrendered to the moment and began to experiment with leftover materials such as nails and paper, allowing the process to be the focal point. My approach continues to reside in the moment as I merge a variety of materials into my own order, often salvaging objects and coaxing beauty from their parts. Once an idea has been explored or a material exhausted, I start a new project. This style encourages me to remain in a beginner’s mindset, full of wonder and possibility.